France faces nationwide strike on September 18

French trade unions will stage a nationwide strike and protests on Thursday, September 18, opposing government budget measures they describe as “brutal.” Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has held talks with union leaders, but failed to ease tensions.

 

Up to 800,000 demonstrators are expected. Nine unions will march together for the first time since 2023, with more than 220 rallies already scheduled across France. Leaders hope turnout will surpass the recent “Block Everything” movement.

Transport across France will be heavily affected. In Paris, major disruption is expected on metro and RER services, with several lines closed or running only at peak hours. Fully automated lines 1, 4 and 14 will operate normally. Bus and tram services will also be impacted, while SNCF warns of significant disruption on Intercités and TER trains. Around 90% of TGVs will still run. Air France faces strike notices from at least three unions, though air-traffic controllers have delayed their action. RATP has advised commuters to work from home if possible.

Tourism will also be hit. The Arc de Triomphe is already closed ahead of the strike, the Louvre warns of delayed openings and gallery closures, and Versailles cannot guarantee access to the château or gardens. Visitors are urged to check official websites before travelling.

Education unions expect one-third of nursery and primary teachers to strike, citing staff shortages and overcrowded classrooms. Disruptions are also likely in school canteens and after-school services.

Pharmacies will join the movement, with around 90% expected to close. Their protest targets cuts to generic drug rebates, which unions warn could threaten thousands of jobs and limit access to essential medicines.

Unions accuse the government of forcing workers, the unemployed, retirees and the sick to shoulder the burden of reforms. With hundreds of thousands set to march, the strike represents a critical test for the new prime minister and the contested 2026 budget plan.